Tyler Quintin

Tyler Quintin

tylerquintinstudioarts@gmail.com

Artist Statement:

Ceramic objects have held an integral role in daily life throughout human history. Whether actively used or objects of admiration, we as humans have developed different associations with these objects. Through sculptural and functional objects alike, I am considering how ceramics can become a vehicle for discussions centered on identity and culture.

I am Korean-American with an entirely American upbringing. Despite this, I grew up with a consistent reminder of my otherness through Asian jokes, stereotypes, and that all to common question of “what kind of Asian are you?” The idea of assumptions based on appearance informs the work that I create. Surface, or lack-there-of, is the primary vehicle for this exploration. Structural recreations of traditional Korean ceramic vessels, devoid of surface, speak to the divide between my appearance and culture. Additionally, I utilize a personal cast of symbols in sculptural and functional work to tell my stories. Using bold pattern work, color, and imagery to recreate the initial recognition of Asian-ness in the viewer, I subtly weave in a personal narrative underneath that asks to be seen. I hope that interactions with my work serve as a reminder to get to know individuals beyond first impressions.